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Operating Room Vertical High Volume Local Recirculation System

Project Background and Design Goal

Precision Air Products designs operating room airflow systems that deliver high-volume, particle-free air to improve cleanliness, temperature, and humidity control, creating a safer environment for patients and staff. However, the system requires significant air movement and equipment, resulting in a large footprint with components installed above ceilings and in adjacent spaces, along with a separate control panel. This makes installation more complex and can limit use in hospitals with space constraints or costly upgrade requirements. The goal of this project is to redesign the system into a compact vertical unit that is easier to install, reduces footprint, and expands accessibility for more hospitals, while maintaining the same high airflow performance and environmental control.

Design Constraints

  • Reduced installation footprint compared to the existing ceiling-mounted system
  • Sufficient airflow for a clean and controlled operating room environment
  • Temperature and humidity control for patient and staff comfort
  • Low noise for use in a surgical setting

Design Outcomes

  • Designed a vertical system concept to replace a larger ceiling-mounted operating
    room airflow setup.
  • Developed a compact, modular unit that combines major components for easier assembly, control, maintenance, and installation.
  • Evaluated the design through performance analysis and testing plans to determine whether it could meet air quality, comfort, and noise targets.

Download the project summary (PDF file).

 

Exterior image of operating room vertical local recirculation system physical prototype

Exterior image of operating room vertical local recirculation system physical prototype

Interior image of operating room vertical local recirculation system physical prototype

Interior image of operating room vertical local recirculation system physical prototype

CAD model of operating room vertical local recirculation system

CAD model of operating room vertical local recirculation system